MONTPELIER - Two years after Tropical Storm Irene inundated Vermont, the storm and its aftermath is providing the backdrop for a new novel by Newfane mystery writer Archer Mayor.

In his book, "Three Can Keep a Secret," Mayor, who has published 24 Vermont-based mysteries, says the book is his attempt to chronicle in fiction one of the biggest things to happen in the state for generations and something that people will be talking about for generations to come.

A number of books have been written and movies made about Vermont's experience with Irene, but Mayor's book is apparently the first piece of fiction.

University of Vermont English Professor Phillip Baruth says fiction is a way for artists and society to make sense of traumatic events.